Nunsense: Hilarious comedy opens at the Engeman Theater

The cast of Nunsense--the musical comedy which revolves around the zany antics of the Little Sisters of Hoboken--didn’t have to wait for the finale for the audience to show their appreciation. This show, which just opened at Northport’s John W. Engeman Theater, is so funny that there was non-stop applause with audience members clapping and laughing so hard it brought tears to their eyes.  If they could have been rolling in the aisles, they would have! And yes, there was a standing ovation.

Who knew nuns could be so funny? For playwright Dan Goggin, it all began when he drew upon his school days with the Marywood Dominican Sisters and experience as a seminarian to create an extremely successful series of ‘nunsensical’ greeting cards. He then developed a cabaret show which eventually morphed into the 1985 musical which has since become an international sensation. 

And at the Engeman Theater, under the direction of Antoinette DiPietropolo, who also served as choreographer, the show is pure perfection.

As the comedy begins, the Little Sisters of Hoboken find themselves in quite the predicament after a batch of bad vichyssoise kills off most of the convent. The tenacious survivors of what they comically refer to as “The Last Supper” decide to stage a variety show to pay for 52 burials.

The Sisters immediately break the fourth wall by mingling and kibitzing with theatergoers.  An air of informality permeates the musical such that there is constant interaction with the crowd. The cast is so comfortable and having such a good time that it makes for a level of engagement with the audience that is magical.

You’ll find that the Sisters-- who are nice, but sometimes naughty--will do and say the darndest things as they unveil their inner divas.  Beneath those homogenous black and white habits are unique personalities who harbor aspirations and dreams. The abundantly talented nuns will steal your heart as they dance and sing up a storm. 

They are all so good that you’ll be hard pressed to pick a favorite.  Reverend Mother Mary Regina, played with great panache by Gwendolyn F. Jones, comes from a family of tightrope walkers. Her penchant for humor and taking center stage is showcased in “Turn Up the Spotlight.”   Sister Mary Hubert (Inga Ballard), Mistress of Novices and second in command, boasts an incredible voice, and her duet with Ms. Jones, “Just A Coupl’a Sisters,” is another showstopper.

 “Growing up Catholic” is a reflective piece which reveals how religious training saved  Sister Robert Anne, played by Marie Danvers, from life on the wrong side of the tracks in Brooklyn. The poignant song tells of the comfort that the Sister still takes in reciting the Latin prayer learned as a young Catholic school student, and how she found her calling.  The song is incredibly moving.

You’ll also enjoy the talents of Sister Mary Leo (Kristina Teschner) who has a delicate gift for both ballet and song.  Ms. Teschner  served as dance captain. Also unforgettable (and this is a pun) is the performance of Sister Mary Amnesia (played by Brittany Ross), so named because she lost her memory after a crucifix  landed on her head. She has her own special talent and develops an incredible rapport with the audience.

The gospel-inspired “Holier Than Thou,” featuring the talents of the Reverend Mother and her brood, is another one of my favorites.

The show within a show takes place on the Engeman Theater’s South Pacific set.   Dan Goggin modified the script to reflect this to hilarious effect and guests will also enjoy references to Northport.

Kudos to the band led by Jack Kohl and to lighting designer Michael Visco.  Casting Director Stephen DeAngelis’ choices are impeccable, as always.

“Nunsense” runs through September 8, but buy tickets early this show could very well sell out! The Engeman Theater is located at 250 Main St., Northport Village. Tickets can be purchased at the theater's box office, by calling (631) 261-2900 or by visiting www.engemantheater.com.